Long-lasting microthalamotomy effect after temporary placement of a thalamic stimulating electrode

Essential tremor can be surgically treated by thalamotomy or deep brain stimulation. During the surgical procedure for both of these procedures, a transient microthalamotomy effect has been observed. This benefit is usually short-lived and appears to be predictive of patient outcome. This report describes a patient who underwent a temporary placement of a stimulating electrode within the ventral intermediate nucleus of the motor thalamus. The procedure was aborted intraoperatively and the patient demonstrated a microthalamotomy effect. This microthalamotomy effect has remained persistent for 24 months, and the patient remains tremor free. This case report lends evidence to the idea that the volume of motor thalamus responsible for tremor may be small and precise. By recognizing the benefit obtained from small lesions with minimal tissue manipulation, surgeons can continue to refine the target for movement disorder surgery.